Motivating Adult Learners

Motivating Adult Learners

Let's put our new knowledge to the test! In just a minute, you will see five True or False questions. If you think the answer is true, click on the box that says True. If you think the answer is false, click on the box that says False.

1. When teaching adults, it is important to share the reason for learning the material.True

When you are teaching adults, it is very important to share with them why they are learning the material. In some instances, adults will only learn if they feel like the outcomes of the learning process are important.

2. Adult learners desire involvement in the planning and evaluation of their work.True

Adult learners are often more self-directed than younger students. Adults are more motivated when they have some autonomy in their learning.

3. When teaching adults, it is not necessary for the information to be applicable to their work or personal livesFalse

It is especially important for adult learners to see the connection between the information being taught and their personal lives. It is important to remember that adults' readiness to learn is often directly linked to a need.

4. Adults respond better to external versus internal motivators.False

Younger learners respond better to external motivators such as grades or rewards.

However, adult learners are more often internally motivated by the potential for feelings of worth, self-esteem, or achievement.

5. When teaching adults, utilize real-world problems that have practical application to their everyday lives.True

No matter what age of learner you are working with, using real-world problems promotes learning. However, when working with adults, it is especially important to engage them with problems that have practical application and relevance to their daily lives.